SHILLONG, July 17: Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Timothy D. Shira on Thursday distributed more than one lakh large cardamom saplings to farmers at Mawkynrew Block, and urged the farming fraternity to adopt organic practices and diversify into high-value crops to improve their livelihoods.
Speaking at the programme, the agriculture minister stated that the government is focused on creating sustainable income opportunities through initiatives like the CM Farm+ scheme. He noted that organically grown produce attracts premium prices in both domestic and international markets.
Mawkynrew MLA Banteidor Lyngdoh, who welcomed the intervention, noted that nearly 90 per cent of the constituency’s residents depend on agriculture.
He said that the distribution of saplings provides a necessary alternative at a time when cultivators are facing losses due to a decline in the prices of other agricultural produce.
Lyngdoh highlighted that large cardamom is well-suited for the Riwar region and is highly profitable, currently fetching between Rs 800 and Rs 1,000 per kilogram.
He then encouraged farmers to nurture the saplings and explore other high-value alternatives to improve their economic standing.
The programme was also attended by Agriculture Secretary R. Nainamalai, Director of Horticulture B. Mylliemngap and East Khasi Hills District Horticulture Officer Sumar Kharlukhi, along with representatives of local farmer groups.
